By Andrew Edwards
Elmore/Autauga News Staff Writer
While most kids will be going to the pool or taking a vacation to the beach this summer, Zoie Ball will be preparing to take a trip to Washington D.C. as a nominee for the Junior National Young Leaders Conference starting on June 20.
Ball, 11, graduated from the 6th grade at Millbrook Middle Junior High School this past year, and is only one of nine total students from her school to be selected to the JrNYLC since 2007. She is the first student representing MMJHS as part of the JrNYLC since 2011.
She was nominated by her 5th grade teacher, Ms. Lisa McKenzie.
The JrNYLC will help Ball take the first step on a path to success in high school, college, and her future career. While in D.C., she will be able to participate in interactive workshops, group simulations, and visit historical sites that will help her develop key skills needed to become an effective leader, such as: goal setting, teamwork, problem solving, and communication.
Ball will have the opportunity to join middle school students from all over the country for the educational experience of a lifetime. There will also be a “Voices of Change” project, where she will create an action-oriented organization that’s designed to create positive change at her school and in her community.
“She tries to be her own number one,” said Aleshia Ball, Zoie’s Mother. “Sometimes she doesn’t see how smart she really is, so when she accomplishes things like this, it’s always overwhelming for me because she’s proving to herself that she can do anything that she sets her mind on.”
Zoie is extremely active in school and out in the community. She participated in a program through MMJHS called “Girls Who Sparkle” which helps to strengthen the community through fundraisers and other events. This Christmas, Zoie helped to write letters and send gifts to children throughout the community.
Ball is also an active member in the Beta Club, The Girls Scouts, and enjoys playing volleyball and doing art.
“I feel so honored to be a part of this,” Zoie said. “At first, I didn’t even know that the opportunity existed, but I’m so happy to know that people like Ms. McKenzie and others think so highly of me.”
Zoie’s Mother was at a loss for words while describing the emotions surrounding her daughter’s recognition.
“If I had the opportunity, I would definitely nominate her, so when someone else sees that in your child, it’s so heartwarming,” Zoie’s mother said. “I’m so, so proud of her and all of the hard work that she does. She’s driven, makes good grades, helps in the community, and she’s being recognized for it all.”
For Zoie, the trip will mark an opportunity of a lifetime.
“I’m nervous but excited at the same time. It’s been a tough year, but I’ve been able to get through it and come out on the other side. I’m ready to get up there,” Zoie said.
Zoie dreams of becoming a Fashion Designer and one day attending London College of Fashion.
